**Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21, 2025, leaves behind a legacy marked by his unexpected choices and compassionate advocacy for the marginalized, challenging traditional norms in surprising ways.**
**The Unpredictable Legacy of Pope Francis: A Reflective Obituary**
**The Unpredictable Legacy of Pope Francis: A Reflective Obituary**
**The global community reflects on the surprising and transformative leadership of Pope Francis, who shaped the Vatican's approach to modern issues during his papacy.**
Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio of Argentina emerged as an unlikely and unconventional choice for pope, and his election as Pope Francis in 2013 shocked many. Initially seen as a strong candidate in 2005, his ascension was overshadowed by the election of Joseph Ratzinger as Pope Benedict XVI. By 2013, few expected Bergoglio’s comeback.
Throughout his twelve years as pope, Pope Francis displayed a penchant for surprises, captivating the world and keeping media observers, including many seasoned reporters, on alert. He embarked on significant trips to countries like Mongolia, Iraq, and Myanmar, highlighting humanitarian crises often ignored by the broader media landscape.
One remarkable moment highlighted by New York Times reporter Jason Horowitz was when Pope Francis met with Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh, a poignant encounter that underscored his dedication to marginalized groups worldwide. Under his leadership, the papacy increasingly acknowledged the plight of migrants and those displaced by conflict, resonating deeply with his pastoral heart and care for all people.
On the papal plane, Francis was approachable and humorous, often engaging with journalists in a manner that felt more personable than many politicians he encountered. However, his governance drew mixed responses, as critics labeled his methods as sometimes authoritarian, juxtaposed with moments of indecision on essential issues, such as the potential for married men to serve as priests in remote communities.
Throughout his tenure, Pope Francis consistently demonstrated his unpredictability and ability to challenge the status quo, leaving both supporters and detractors pondering what his papacy truly represented. As the world remembers him, it becomes increasingly evident that his legacy extends beyond traditional barriers, contributing significantly to conversations around faith, compassion, and social justice.
Jason Horowitz serves as the Rome bureau chief for The Times, covering Italy, the Vatican, Greece, and surrounding areas.
